Mooselookmeguntic Lake

Deep in the wild, forested reaches of western Maine lies a lake with a name that’s as unforgettable as the landscape itself: Mooselookmeguntic Lake. Pronounced moose-look-mah-gun-tick, this remote body of water sits just a few miles from the Appalachian Trail and offers a peaceful retreat into Maine’s untouched backcountry.

Mooselookmeguntic Lake spans Franklin and Oxford counties and is part of the Androscoggin River watershed, a vital network of rivers and lakes that flows through New England. Located near the borders of New Hampshire and Quebec, this lake is among the most scenic and secluded bodies of water in the region. It’s a destination prized for its fishing, hiking, paddling, and unmatched quietude. A place where moose still roam and loons echo at dusk.

Where Is Mooselookmeguntic Lake?

This lake sits in western Maine, in a region known for its wild beauty and remoteness. It is just northwest of the town of Rangeley, a charming, outdoorsy village that serves as a gateway to the surrounding lakes and forests. The Appalachian Trail passes nearby, bringing through-hikers tantalizingly close to this vast body of water.

Although it remains off the radar for most tourists, Mooselookmeguntic is well-known to outdoor enthusiasts in New England. Its location near the New Hampshire state line and proximity to Canada make it a perfect stop for cross-border adventurers.

What’s Behind the Name?

Mooselookmeguntic is an Abnaki word that roughly translates to “moose feeding place.” It’s a name that evokes the deep natural connection of the region and the indigenous history of Maine. According to records from the US Geological Survey, there are a few variant spellings including Mooselocmaguntic and Mooselookmeguntick. But the meaning remains the same: a wild place where moose once gathered, and still do.

The name may be long and tongue-twisting, but it perfectly captures the sense of wonder and wilderness that the lake inspires.

Size, Depth, and Water Flow

With a surface area of 25.5 square miles, Mooselookmeguntic is the sixth largest lake in Maine. It reaches a maximum depth of 132 feet, and sits at an elevation of 1,467 feet above sea level, making it a true highland lake.

The hydrology of the lake is part of a much larger system. It receives inflow from a number of rivers, including:

• The Cupsuptic River, which enters from the north via the connected Cupsuptic Lake

• The Kennebago River, a pristine tributary that flows into the northeastern section

• The Rangeley River, which also joins from the east

The outflow from Mooselookmeguntic heads southwest into Upper Richardson Lake, passing through a dam known as the Upper Dam.

The Role of Upper Dam

The Upper Dam, first built in 1850, forever altered the landscape of the region. By raising the lake level about six feet, it caused Mooselookmeguntic Lake and Cupsuptic Lake to become one connected reservoir. Before this engineering feat, the lakes were two distinct bodies of water.

The dam was rebuilt in the late 19th century and then underwent another major reconstruction between 2012 and 2016. Today, it plays a vital role in regulating water levels in the area and supports the lake’s use as both a reservoir and recreational area.

Islands and Wilderness

The southern portion of the lake features two islands that add even more intrigue to the lake’s geography:

• Toothaker Island

• Students Island

These islands are part of what gives the lake its unique character. Both are accessible by boat and are used for rustic camping and nature exploration. The islands, along with the lake’s shoreline, are surrounded by the Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve, one of Maine’s lesser-known yet most impressive conservation areas.

The preserve offers primitive campsites that are intentionally minimal, helping protect the environment while giving visitors a true wilderness experience. It's an ideal location for paddlers and backpackers seeking solitude without sacrificing scenery.

Fishing and Wildlife

Mooselookmeguntic Lake is a prime fishing destination, particularly for those targeting cold-water species. The lake is home to a variety of fish, including:

• Landlocked salmon

• Brook trout

• Lake trout (togue)

• Smallmouth bass

Thanks to the cold, deep waters and healthy tributaries, the fish populations here are robust. The lake’s remoteness and protection from overdevelopment help preserve this delicate ecosystem.

Aside from fishing, the lake is also a favorite for wildlife watchers. Loons, bald eagles, and moose are common sights around the shoreline. Paddlers often find themselves navigating misty morning waters in total silence, broken only by the calls of birds or the distant crash of a moose entering the lake.

A Quiet Retreat for Outdoor Enthusiasts

What makes Mooselookmeguntic Lake stand out among Maine’s many outdoor destinations is its sense of isolation. It doesn’t draw the large summer crowds found at lakes like Sebago or Moosehead. Instead, it attracts those looking for a quiet place to paddle a canoe, cast a line, or sit beside a campfire under the stars.

Camping is allowed through the Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve, which offers sites along the shoreline and on the islands. These are backcountry campsites, with no amenities other than what you bring. For more comfortable lodging, the town of Rangeley offers rustic cabins, cozy inns, and lakeside rentals.

Hiking options abound nearby, and while the Appalachian Trail doesn't cross the lake, it's only a few miles away in some spots. Hikers can combine a lake trip with treks to Saddleback Mountain, Bald Mountain, or scenic drives along the Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway.

In Literature and Culture

Mooselookmeguntic Lake’s mystique has also made it a muse for writers and artists. It appears prominently in "Magic Thinks Big", a children’s picture book written and illustrated by Elisha Cooper. The book features beautifully painted images of the lake, including one of its iconic islands and sweeping views of the surrounding forest.

While it might not have the same cultural footprint as Walden Pond or Lake Champlain, Mooselookmeguntic’s quiet presence in literature reinforces its reputation as a place of reflection, solitude, and untamed natural beauty.

How to Visit Mooselookmeguntic Lake

Getting There: The nearest town is Rangeley, Maine, located about 2.5 hours from Portland or 3.5 hours from Boston. The lake is best accessed by Route 16, which winds through forested terrain and offers glimpses of the lake as you approach.

Where to Stay:

• Rustic campsites through the Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve

• Lakeside cabins and rentals in Rangeley and Oquossoc

• Campgrounds and lodges near Cupsuptic and Kennebago

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall is ideal for lake activities, with autumn being particularly spectacular due to Maine’s famous fall foliage. Winter visits are possible for those who enjoy snowshoeing or ice fishing, but the lake’s remoteness and elevation mean weather can be unpredictable.

Final Thoughts: A Lake That Lives Up to Its Name

With its sprawling waters, protected wilderness, and evocative name, Mooselookmeguntic Lake offers one of the most authentic outdoor experiences in New England. It’s a place where ancient forest meets clear mountain water, where the legacy of the Abnaki people lives on, and where modern visitors can step away from the noise and reconnect with nature.

Whether you’re drawn by the call of a loon, the tug of a salmon on the line, or the simple joy of pronouncing "Mooselookmeguntic," this lake offers something that’s increasingly rare: true, deep stillness.